Medications for Gout

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications only as recommended by your doctor, and according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Medications can be used to treat the symptoms of acute attacks and help prevent future recurrent attacks. Medications for acute attacks work best if taken within 24 hours of symptom onset. They may only be needed for a short time. Preventive medications will have to be taken on a regular basis.

Prescription Medications

Colchicine

Colchicine
is given during a gout attack to relieve the pain, swelling, and inflammation. It works by decreasing the acidity of joint tissue and preventing deposits of uric acid crystals in joints. This medication may also be taken in smaller doses to help prevent recurrent gout attacks when people are started on urate-lowering medications.

Possible side effects include:

Diarrhea

Nausea

Vomiting

Abdominal pain

Muscle pain

Consult your doctor before taking colchicine if you have liver or kidney disease.

Corticosteroids

Common names include:

Prednisone

Prednisolone

Betametasone (for joint injection)

Triamcinalone (for joint injection)

Methylprednisolone (given IV, usually for severe cases)

Corticosteroids can control the pain, swelling, and inflammation of joints caused by gout. The medication can be given as a tablet or in liquid form or by injection into a joint—or in severe cases, as an IV. If taken orally, corticosteroids are best taken at the same time(s) each day and should be taken with liquid or food to lessen stomach upset.

Xanthine oxidase inhibitors are sometimes given to people who suffer repeated gout attacks. This medication slows the development of uric acid by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes. It's given in tablet form and should be taken at the same time(s) each day. Allopurinol should be taken with food or liquid to help avoid stomach upset.

Possible side effects include:

Rash

Nausea

Liver problems

Joint pain (febuxostat)

Uricosuric Medications

Common names include:

Probenecid

Sulfinpyrazone

Benzbromarone

These medications are sometimes given to those who suffer repeated gout attacks (especially when tophi deposits develop). This medication forces the kidneys to excrete additional uric acid. It's given in tablet form and should be taken at the same time each day with food or liquid to help avoid stomach upset. People with uric acid
kidney stones
or with certain blood disorders should not take these medications.

Pegloticase has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adults who have severe gout that has not been relieved by other treatments. This medication works by turning uric acid into a chemical that does not cause gout symptoms. This chemical leaves the body through the urine. Pegloticase is given by injection every 2 weeks.

Since severe allergic reactions are common with this medication, a corticosteroid and an antihistamine are given before the injection of pegloticase. Other possible side effects include:

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Common names include:

Ibuprofen—OTC or prescription

Indomethacin—prescription only

Naproxen—OTC or prescription

Diclofenac—prescription only

NSAIDs are given to treat the pain, inflammation, and swelling caused by gout attacks.
Some
can be purchased over the counter or your doctor may prescribe a higher dosage. They work by decreasing prostaglandins, hormones that produce inflammation and pain. The medication may also be taken in smaller doses to help prevent attacks in those with recurrent gout attacks who are started on urate-lowering medications. NSAIDs are given by mouth. They should be taken at the same time (or times) each day and should be taken with food or liquid to help avoid stomach upset.

Worsening of chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure,
heart failure, or kidney disease

Kidney damage

Severe allergic reaction, such as
hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling around the eyes

Increased risk of bleeding—always inform your doctor that you are taking an NSAID before having any medical or dental procedures or surgeries

NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular problems, like
heart attack
and
stroke. This risk is especially important for those with cardiovascular disease or who are have risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Special Considerations

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Medications can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one medication, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.